Tehran, Iran – Web Desk: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to travel to Oman on Saturday at the head of a diplomatic delegation for consultations on bilateral relations and regional developments, with a particular focus on matters related to the Strait of Hormuz .
Purpose of the Visit
According to Iran’s state-run IRIB TV, Araghchi will discuss the latest regional developments with Omani officials, especially the situation in the strategic waterway . Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei stated that under the recently signed Iran-US memorandum of understanding (MoU) in Islamabad, Tehran and Muscat are required to cooperate and consult on maritime issues regarding the strait .
Baghaei noted that several rounds of technical talks have already been held on this matter in both Tehran and Muscat . He emphasized that Iran has “accepted a clear responsibility” for establishing normal maritime arrangements and services in the strait and has acted with determination on that matter .
Oman’s Mediation Role
Oman maintains a unique position in the region, with its territory bordering the southern side of the Strait of Hormuz—a critical chokepoint for global oil supplies that accounts for approximately one-fifth of global oil consumption and up to one-third of the world’s liquefied natural gas trade . The strait, bounded to the north by Iran and to the south by Oman and the UAE, connects the Gulf with the Arabian Sea .
Oman has also been recognized for its growing mediation diplomacy in recent years . The consultations come amid renewed military exchanges between the United States and Iran following attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, which prompted US strikes on Iranian targets and Iranian retaliation against US military facilities in the Gulf .
Background
In mid-June, Iran and the United States signed the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding with Pakistan’s mediation, establishing a 60-day roadmap toward a final agreement . The MoU committed both parties to de-escalation and negotiations, while acknowledging the need for bilateral coordination on Strait of Hormuz arrangements .
